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Zagori

The Slow Cyclist in Zagori

"Hilly Zagori, in the north, is thrilling for cyclists"

Russel Herneman, THE TIMES

When to go

May - Oct

Price from

£2,940

Duration

4-5 nights

Activity level

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Villages Beyond the Mountains | Classic Journey

Nestled in the mountainous Epirus region of north-western Greece lies little-known Zagori. Discover enchanting mountain villages, gorges, rich forests, high grazing pastures and crystal clear rivers on foot and by e-bike. Zagori is truly one of Greece’s hidden gems.

The remote, atmospheric valley was once an important staging point for wealthy Ottoman traders on the silk routes in the 17th & 18th centuries. It is now home to 46 stone villages, known collectively as Zagorochoria, linked by stone paths and bridges, offering a glimpse into traditional Greek village life.

Wildflowers on the stone Vradeto steps where Slow Cyclists walk on a journey in Zagori, Greece.

Journey Highlights

  • Discover the fascinating history of ancient Zagori, with glimpses into traditional life in the villages of Zagorochoria
  • Cycle and walk at your own pace, stopping for picnics and the occasional refreshing dip in the mountain rivers
  • Step back in time and absorb the cultural beauty of the spectacular 18th century Negades church
  • Enjoy the very best local Greek food and wines in some of Zagori's most charming family-run guest houses
  • Marvel at the Vikos Gorge, discovering flora and fauna found nowhere else in the world
A picnic table with a view over the mountains of Zagori, Greece, set for Slow Cyclists to enjoy a Greek lunch.
Slow Cyclists at a dinner table in Zagori, Greece, eating a Greek feast.

Itinerary

We designed our Zagori cycling holiday to be a 5-night exploration of one of Greece's wildest and most beautiful regions. Below is the itinerary, although it can easily be offered as a 4-night journey too.
Transfer 3.5 hours

For those arriving on the recommended flight, we provide a transfer to Dilofo, where we stay in a charming traditional mansion in the heart of this beautiful Zagorian village. Dinner is in a village restaurant.

Morning cycle 29 kms - Afternoon cycle 13 kms

After breakfast and our bike fitting we will leave Dilofo on bicycles. We start with a beautiful downhill before climbing up to Dikorfo. It is a challenging climb but we will be rewarded with some spectacular views and a delicious, freshly prepared lunch. This afternoon we continue our cycle to Fragades, where we stay in a charming family-run guest house with uninterrupted views over the surrounding lush landscape.

Morning cycle 35 kms - Afternoon cycle 6 kms

We leave Fragades on bike heading west and, after stopping to see the wonderful church at Negades, we wind our way along a gloriously peaceful back road, ending with lunch in a local taverna. In the afternoon we will continue our cycle to Kapesovo, high above the surrounding hills. Dinner is in the village and your accommodation is a lovely guest house owned and run by Gianna and her family.

Morning walk 7.5 kms - Afternoon cycle 29 kms

We leave Kapesovo on foot, climbing a stone shepherds’ track built in the 17th century to connect Vradeto with the outside world. When we reach the village of Vradeto, we’ll enjoy a rest at our friend Konstantina’s coffee shop before continuing to Beloi for our first sight of the Vikos Gorge. We will have a picnic lunch in the hills above Vradeto. In the afternoon it’s a fantastic cycle to Kato Pedina, set amid the plains of the Pindus Mountains and home to our overnight accommodation.

Morning walk/cycle 5.5 kms - Afternoon cycle 27 kms

After a slow morning we will either walk or cycle to the village of Elafotopos, where we will meet our friend Lena who will show us the art of weaving and felt making before cooking us a delicious homemade lunch. In the afternoon we will enjoy a stunning ride with increasingly epic views as we near the Vikos Gorge. Along the way we will find the perfect spot for a dip in the Voidomatis River, if you’re brave enough. Our final night is spent in charming Papigo, perching precariously at the entrance to the gorge.

This morning you will have the opportunity to enjoy a morning walk either to the Papigo pools or around the village. We will then take you for your farewell lunch before we say goodbye and send you on the way to the airport.

Dates & Availability

If you would prefer to travel to Zagori in a private group, enquire now for availability.

Go private

What's Included?

It’s rare in small group travel, but at The Slow Cyclist we include everything from the moment you land in Zagori. We are often told by our guests how great it is to forget about their wallet and focus on the experience.

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    Electric Bikes

    A premium electric mountain bike, best suited to the terrain.

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    Guides & Hosts

    A dedicated Slow Cyclist host to take care of you throughout your journey and two local guides, passionate about the history and culture of Zagori.

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    Transfers

    Airport transfers on arrival and departure, and you never need to carry any bags as your luggage is transported ahead each day.

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    Accommodation, Food & Drinks

    Characterful Zagorian guest houses, delicious locally sourced and home-cooked food and all drinks and snacks.

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    Activities

    All cultural visits and activities, from visiting the 18th century Negades church to meeting a local weaver. And as ever with The Slow Cyclist, plenty of surprises too.

A view of mountains and traditional stone villages in Zagori, Greece.
An old car with Slow Cyclist bikes lined up behind in Zagori, Greece.

Walking and Cycling in Zagori

The Pindus Mountains in Greece's Epirus region are steep and dramatic, so cycling in Zagori can be challenging at times, but with unrivalled views. An e-bike makes the hills far more manageable so you can focus on relishing the natural beauty of your surroundings. We cycle up to 45 kms each day, occasionally leaving the bikes behind to explore on foot. Walks aren't technical but can be steep in places.

A Slow Cyclist Guide Speaking To Guests In Zagori Greece

Guiding & Support

Our attention to detail sets us apart. On your cycling holiday in Zagori, you will be accompanied by a Slow Cyclist host. In addition, you will be looked after by two of our local guides throughout. Your bags will be driven ahead each day and a support vehicle will be on hand (although never too close) in case you need a lift.

Traditional musicians playing Greek music for Slow Cyclists in Zagori.

Accommodation​

We avoid big, soulless hotels, preferring intimate Zagorian guest houses. To help you get a good night’s sleep we provide luxury pillows in addition to those provided by the guest houses. In family-run guest houses, you'll always be treated to hearty portions of traditional Greek mountain food, washed down with local wines and spirits.

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How to book

There are two ways to travel with us. You can either travel on a set-date Scheduled Journey or put together your own private party.
Make new friends

Scheduled Journeys

A wonderful opportunity to explore a fascinating part of the world, meet like-minded travellers and make new friends in a group of Slow Cyclists assembled by us.

Scheduled Journeys
Travel with friends

Private Journeys

If you love the look of Zagori and would like to experience it in a small group of family or friends, get in touch and we will explain how we can make it happen.

Private Journeys

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